Fresh analysis reveals that patients who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt conventional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a prominent health publication shows that while obese people frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users purchasing these drugs must be aware of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about 18 months.
Weighing Therapies
The analysis, which looked at 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the results of the injectable medications with other pills.
The team point out that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically have a less rapid weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Doctors propose the mode of action of the injections explains the heightened weight return.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also reduce sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this medication leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "highlight the long-term character of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Testimonies
Individuals who have come off the medication describe a sudden return of appetite.
"It felt as if a switch activating and you become starving," described a patient.
The struggle is worsened if patients have not established permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Significant Use
Recent estimates indicate that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and long-term success likely depends on combined behavioural management.
